{"id":939,"date":"2020-02-13T14:59:38","date_gmt":"2020-02-13T14:59:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lehighvalleydentalhealth.com\/blog\/?p=939"},"modified":"2020-03-13T15:02:14","modified_gmt":"2020-03-13T15:02:14","slug":"oral-heart-health-dentist-lehigh-valley","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lehighvalleydentalhealth.com\/blog\/oral-heart-health-dentist-lehigh-valley\/","title":{"rendered":"Oral Health and Your Heart: What\u2019s the Connection?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Healthy<\/a>You\u2019ve heard your mouth is the gateway to your general health, but this involves more than just the foods you eat. Your dental health is directly linked to your overall health. In fact, research shows a deeper connection than previously thought. There\u2019s overwhelming evidence connecting your oral health to your heart. Now, it\u2019s more important than ever to maintain routine visits to your dentist in the Lehigh Valley to keep your smile and heart health.
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Link Between Oral and General Health<\/h2>\n

There are certain dental conditions that are proven to affect your general health. Among the leading concerns is gum disease. The preventable infection is present in about 50% of adults in America. It results from bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations from poor oral hygiene habits. At first, the symptoms may not seem alarming, but without the right treatment gum disease will destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. Unfortunately, it\u2019s a leading cause of tooth loss.<\/p>\n

An incomplete smile isn\u2019t the only concern. The bacteria responsible for the infection can enter your bloodstream through the pressure of regular chewing. As it circulates throughout your body, it increases your risk of several health issues, particularly for the heart.<\/p>\n

Gum Disease and Your Heart<\/h2>\n

Gum disease is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, which refers to a broad set of conditions, such as heart attack and stroke. Research shows the risk of heart disease can increase by as much as 20% in patients who have untreated gum disease. It\u2019s believed the likeliness is enhanced because the infection causes inflammation throughout the body, which can cause the arteries to narrow over time.<\/p>\n

Promote a Healthy Mouth and Heart<\/h2>\n

Although gum disease is common, there are several things you can do to protect your smile<\/a> and your heart health, including:<\/p>\n